Standard underground electrical equipment has been designed to resist the mechanical forces created by bolted faults at the load terminals until power circuit breakers or other protective devices can interrupt the fault current flow. The equipment is tested for short-circuit, short-time withstand, and interruption resistance. During a bolted failure, the voltage is virtually zero at the location of the fault, and the fault’s energy is dissipated through the entire power system. The power circuit breaker cools and extinguishes the arc created during the interruption. Electrical equipment is tested to ensure that arc byproducts are not released.
Standard Features
Protect miners from arcs at the front, rear, and sides by using arc-resistant equipment. Arc-resistant products are classified according to ANSI/IEEE C37.20.7. The enclosure is reinforced to resist pressure caused by internal arcing faults. Internal venting system with pressure vents and dams to channel arc fault gas flow and vent these gases away from personnel. Top covers and panels with reinforced and sealed seals. Bolted covers with reinforced reinforcement. Shroud for ventilation inlet/outlet.
Industrial Arc Guard Benefits
Arc guards provide essential safety in any industrial setting, protecting workers against high voltages and arc flashes from electrical equipment, thereby reducing the risk of serious injury or death. Arc guards offer several benefits:
1. Increased Safety: Arc guards provide an additional layer of protection to workers from the dangerous voltages and arcs that electrical equipment can produce. They keep workers safer by reducing the risks of electric shocks and arcs.
2. Increased Efficiency: The use of arc guards can reduce the time and effort needed to maintain a secure working environment. By preventing access to electrical equipment, which could be dangerous, and preventing an arc flash, arc guards can reduce the time required to repair and troubleshoot any damages that have occurred.
3. Reduced Liability: Arc guards can help limit the liability of a company in case of an accident. In the event that an employee is injured because of inadequate safety measures, a company could be held responsible for negligence. By providing additional safety measures, arc guards can help reduce the risk of an accident.
4. Cost Savings: Arc guards are an effective way to protect workers, preventing injuries and damages caused by electrical equipment. This saves companies money in medical costs and lawsuits.
This post was written by Justin Tidd, Director at Becker/SMC. For nearly a half a century, Becker Mining has been at the forefront of safety, producing the best arc guard in the industry. Becker/SMC is the industry’s leader in increasingly more sophisticated electrical control systems. Most of the major innovations, design features and specialized electrical components have been developed by Becker/SMC.
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